But even if you've already earned a biology degree (or plan to), you can greatly boost your employment opportunities by getting some additional training that's more vocational in nature. Now he is considering being an RN, and possibly Nurse Practitioner. Individuals who have earned biology degrees typically work in laboratory settings. In some cases, after completing your program, you may also need to register with your state and/or pass a certification or licensing exam. Many professionals, however, choose to pursue graduate-level work in environmental science to advance progress more quickly in their career. In addition to diving deeper into animal physiology, ecology, organic chemistry and other foundational subjects, a masterâs degree gives you the chance to specialize in topics like human genetics, neurology, or the mating habits of animals living in deep sea trenches. This means that your biology education will focus on issues that impact human, animal, and plant life and include subjects like genetic engineering, transhumanism, GMO farming, and global climate change. For help safely navigating the ForâProfit Sector, check out our Guide to ForâProfit Colleges: What You Need to Know. The bachelor of science (BS) in biology incorporates a greater focus on lab work and mathematics, and is best suited for those who will advance into a medical or research-intensive profession. It may be more appropriate if you want to enter a medical or researchâintensive profession. Legitimate regional and national accrediting organizations are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (ED). This is ideal if you intend to use your biology degree in a field like healthcare management, conservation, or agricultural management. I originally wanted to go to med school but I took the MCAT and I did not do good plus my gpa is only 3.1. (Some schools offer graduate programs that are more accessible and streamlined than what you'll find at many traditional universities.). I have a friend who just got his Bachelors in Biology from a 4-year university. Council for Higher Education Accreditation. For many others, the biology associateâs degree provides an ideal stepping stone to further study in areas like nursing, health sciences, public health, and of course, biology. If you hope to conduct research and publish scholarly findings on genetic innovations, revelations in the field of pathology, or new and troubling evidence concerning threats to our ecological balance, this is the degree for you. You can also combine your biology education with other major subjects of study. But unlike other areas of study with well-defined career paths, biology's professional outcomes can sometimes be trickier to figure out, mostly because the possibilities are so wide-ranging. But this question often stems from the fact that jobs for biology majors can be hard to find—unless you have a practical career plan, understand the relevant alternatives, and know how to approach the challenge. Check out these sections: Average salaries are current as of June 29, 2020 and are based on data from the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) program unless indicated as being from (1) PayScale. TheBestSchools.org is an advertising-supported site. And starting the process is easy. Students who earn a biology degree have a multitude of opportunities ahead of them. Capitalize on your understanding of biological testing procedures by helping scientists keep track of their data, set up their laboratories, and analyze crop samples and other types of food products. Here are a few of the top careers in biology: Depending on how far you take your studies, your biology education could be the pathway to a very wellâpaying career. Begin right now by conducting a quick search for programs in your region. Choose your own path and start applying your talents in work. The easiest way to determine accreditation status is to contact your school of choice. Become a specialist in biology-related areas like muscular anatomy, body mechanics, and human pathology while using the healing power of touch to help people relieve stress, ease physical tension, recover from injury, minimize pain, and more. They may not realize that those opportunities are often reserved for people who go on to earn more advanced graduate-level degrees. As a master of biology, youâll be qualified to conduct medical research, contribute to public policy discussions on environmental policy, work in pharmaceutical R&D, or in laboratory settings connected to your concentration. Accreditation of Colleges and Universities: Whoâs Accrediting the Accreditors? Plus, students who've already completed college-level courses related to biology are sometimes able to receive credit for those courses, which can shorten their training even further. Now what? Or maybe you're studying this field in college right now and have doubts about the value of your current educational path. Education requirements: A Bachelor's Degree in Biology can qualify you for entry-level work in the field of environmental science. Biology is brought to you with support from the Our mission is to provide a free, world-class education to anyone, anywhere. With a little bit of extra vocational training, you can work in the growing allied health care sector. Also known as laboratory assistants, biological technicians use the laboratory ⦠Maybe you've already graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology and haven't found suitable employment yet. For example, with a degree in microbiology, you can pursue jobs related to studying viruses, bacteria, fungi, algae, microscopic parasites, or other microorganisms. Help patients in medical and health care settings in the most direct ⦠A bachelorâs degree in biology is a great pathway if you envision a career in horticulture, agriculture, genetics, zoology, or any field that involves the study of living organisms. Your career goals changed. Biology majors are prepared for educator roles, environmental and wildlife management, research positions, professional degrees and graduate programs. To find out if a college or university on your list is regionally accredited, check the Department of Educationâs Database of Postsecondary Institutions and Programs. Depending on what you would like your career in biology to be, a masterâs in biology may be the right choice for you. With a biology degree, you will probably enter the workforce with a wide variety of valuable abilities—maybe more than you realize. That's why this article explores the value of various options, including many good-paying occupations within industries that may surprise you. Potential careers can even include working as an assistant to a dermatologist or other medical esthetics practitioner. You may even decide to specialize in the study of one particular type of microorganism. If you are excited by the opportunity to step into the laboratory or collect samples in the field, then you might be a good candidate for a masterâs degree in biology. Biology is often thought to be one of the most popular areas of study. And the possibilities may expand even more if you're prepared to get just a little bit of additional training at a vocational school. Explore the structure and physiology of the human heart and circulatory system while assisting doctors by conducting diagnostic cardiovascular tests, monitoring patients, or performing other actions during essential cardiac procedures. Below is a selection of some of the less conventional careers you ⦠You can also look at the Department of Educationâs database of all recognized accreditors within its purview. And the practical skills that you do get to learn are typically very specific to actions such as performing research in a laboratory or writing technical papers. Clearly, you may never need to know what to do with a biology degree—because you might not even need one. Become a skincare specialist and help people attain healthier, better-looking skin through a variety of treatments. Transform your interest in biology into an active and fascinating career in which you can prepare sterile and efficient operating rooms and assist surgeons during medical surgeries. As a computational biologist, your career could involve developing computerized simulations that make it possible to study research questions without using a traditional laboratory. One common reason for pursuing a graduate degree is that an undergraduate biology education is often more knowledge-based than skills-based. Daniel says biology degree recipients tend to have marketable skills in both science and math, which is a winning combination for many employers, and this skill set is something degree ⦠Youâll gain an introductory-level education in human anatomy, animal and plant reproduction, ecology, and organic chemistry. A degree in general biology can also be a great choic⦠For graduate degree holders, it was $93,000.). Colleges and trade schools that focus on preparing students for in-demand vocations tend to have relatively easy admission requirements, short programs, and convenient class schedules. An associate degree in biology can also be a direct path to a job as a lab tech or an entry-level healthcare professional. © 2021 TheBestSchools.org, a Red Ventures Company. If you are asking yourself, âWhat Can You Do With a biology degree?â, check out Life, Physical, and Social Sciences Careers, as well as Medical Careers. Although you will likely be required to finish a doctorate degree if you wish to advance to the position of pharmacist, a biology degree â associateâs or bachelorâs â qualifies you for several pharmacy-related jobs, including that of a pharmacy technician. Trade-Schools.net matches students with schools and is compensated when a visitor requests and receives information from our clients. Help pharmacists organize, measure, package, label, and dispense prescription medications in a retail or hospital pharmacy setting. If you have a love for animals, an interest in veterinary science, or aspirations to work in forestry or conservation, then you might also benefit from this introductory exposure to general biology courses. Help protect the health of American workers by designing strategies to prevent workplace injuries, diseases, and environmental damage and by inspecting work settings to ensure that they comply with relevant government regulations. Those with advanced degrees, for example, master's or doctoral degrees, do independent research. You just have to know where to find the opportunities. And if you've earned such a degree already, then continuing your education at a vocational school may offer you a smoother and easier chance at getting truly employable skills for a career you'll be happy with. Highly informative resources to keep your education journey on track. While your bachelorâs degree will provide you with the necessary theoretical and practical groundwork, your masterâs degree will provide you with your first real opportunity to conduct meaningful research specific to your area of interest. I just graduated from college with a Biology degree. To learn more about National Accreditation, check out Understanding National Accreditation. Hi! And medical school, which is one of the most popular options for biology grads, often has the most discriminating entrance requirements of all. Typically, the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) recognizes the same institutions, although CHEA recognition isnât mandatory. So, now I have this piece of paper with my name on it, and am a little freaking out about what I ⦠Interested in all kinds of biology? Biology is one of the most rapidly expanding areas of research and one of the most relevant subjects for medical or life sciences. Your biology degree can be the key to a wide range of career possibilities. Of course, popularity is not necessarily a measure of value. For a detailed look at the differences between regional and national accreditation, check out What Do I Need to Know About College Accreditation? The problem is that a lot of smart, motivated people go into the field believing that an undergraduate degree in biology may be all they need to access the types of employment opportunities they want. Then consider a Master in Biology, a degree program that can advance your career to the next level. Your career could involve pure research, or you could apply your research to the development of solutions in areas like public health, agriculture, or environmental restoration. Play a vital role in protecting our environment and people's health by using your understanding of biology to plan and oversee efforts to clean up pollution, reduce industrial waste, make policy recommendations, and analyze air, water, and soil quality. An associate degree in biology touches on the basic knowledge required for an assistant position in many laboratories or research facilities. A college or university must be accredited by a Department of Education-recognized accreditor in order for its students to receive federal financial aid. Or you can pursue a graduate degree in biology and become a college instructor, research scientist, or genetic counselor. This means youâll have anywhere from six to eight years of training under your belt before you can even begin to undertake the sophisticated research necessary to make advancements in the field. In addition, it's often possible to find jobs in government agencies that are charged with conserving natural resources and protecting public health and the environment. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the median annual salaries, as of 2018, for a few of the most popular career options in your field: Professional associations are a fantastic way to make connections in a field, learn about valuable seminars or certifications, and improve your own credentials. Demonstrate an in-depth mastery from a range of fundamental biological concepts and subjects, including cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, evolution and ecology, and principles of conservation biology. The degree in biology allows you to choose one or more interesting directions. Nearly 52 percent of public school teachers have a master's degree, reports Face the Facts. I just got fired from my last job as a grossing technician in the histology department of a laboratory. Many biology majors begin their educational journey with a goal to go ⦠Provide individualized advice to patients and clients about the best foods to eat as part of an overall plan to become healthier or to better manage particular diseases. Join Over 1.5 Million People We've Introduced to Awesome Schools Since 2001, Home > Articles > What to Do With a Biology Degree, "I recommend using Trade-Schools.net because you can find the program that you are interested in nearby or online. But when you pursue a doctorate degree in biology, you generally choose a special area of focus. These organizations are comprised of faculty from various accredited colleges and universities. In general, a biologist studies life, including its underlying processes and the relationships between living matter and the environment. Here are some example salaries based on nationwide averages. As a result, many employers may feel that biology graduates don't offer enough in the way of practical abilities that are relevant to their particular work settings. Biology is the science of life on planet earthâhow living creatures form, evolve, grow, function and adapt on both the macro and micro levels. For many people, a biology degree is a step on the way to medical school or another health care specialty. This biology field is as diverse and expansive as the world it studies, which means that a degree in biology can equip you for a number of job opportunities and teach a wide range of marketable skills. But the process of getting into a traditional graduate-level program for a master's degree or PhD can be very competitive and time-consuming. According to the OES program, a biologist makes from $67,760 to $105,940 per year, on average, depending on the specialty. Practical or Vocational Nurse. Answer these 3 easy questions to get started, The challenge of pursuing careers with a biology degree at the undergraduate level, A more practical approach that's often more satisfying, 19 biology-related vocations with great employment outlooks, 9 entry-level biology jobs that you can get with a bachelor's degree, Medical Careers That Offer High Pay & Low Stress, Zoologists and wildlife biologists: $67,200, Botanists (i.e., plant scientists): $69,860, Entry-level education: Certificate or diploma, Entry-level education: Certificate, diploma, or associate degree, Entry-level education: Associate degree (for technicians) or bachelor's degree (for technologists), Entry-level education: Certificate, diploma, or associate or bachelor's degree, Yearly job openings (for all sales reps of technical and scientific products): 36,000, Entry-level education: Bachelor's degree (plus teacher certification), Entry-level education: Associate or bachelor's degree. Your biology degree could lead to a career in academics, laboratory research, pharmaceuticals, or zoology, and more. The association or associations you choose to join will depend to an extent on the career path you take. So your options are not limited to scientific research, teaching, professional medicine, or other professions that require the most advanced educational credentials. In addition to introductory level studies in human physiology, plant and animal reproduction, ecology, and the taxonomy of living organisms, youâll also have a chance to engage in in-depth studies of specific bodily systems; the connection between neurology and psychology; and the complex ethical questions that can arise from challenging biogenetic issues. But that process is often relatively fast, especially if you attend a school that focuses on helping you prepare for such an exam. Changing your major now isn't a realistic option. Assist environmental scientists by collecting samples, investigating pollution sources, monitoring areas of concern, and working to prevent violations such as toxic dumping or air, water, and soil contamination. A Ph.D. in biology is also the basic requirement for becoming a university-level biology professor. On the contrary, you might just discover that some of the most fulfilling and reliable occupations have the power to satisfy your interest in biology without requiring you to get a degree in the subject. You can also work in the field of environmental protection. A bachelorâs degree in biology is a great educational starting point if you ultimately plan to pursue a medical career. Summary of Biology Major Skills. To learn more about navigating the tricky accreditation landscape, check out Accreditation of Colleges and Universities: Whoâs Accrediting the Accreditors? Now you have a more particular vision of your biology career. Be one of the first responders to situations in which people's lives might be saved as a result of your quick actions and knowledge of first-aid treatment for the sick or injured. Please see our About page and our Privacy & Terms of Use for more details. Degree Programs and Careers. Still feeling uncertain? Middle States Commission of Higher Education (MSCHE), New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE), Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), Database of Postsecondary Institutions and Programs, Guide to ForâProfit Colleges: What You Need to Know. So you're not alone in wanting to pursue a career in it. Research opportunities do exist for top students with biology backgrounds, but if you plan to conduct research for a living, you will most likely need to continue to an advanced degree program. Increase your understanding of animal biology as somebody who gets to assist veterinarians with diagnostic testing and medical procedures related to the care of people's pets or other creatures. Associate Degree Programs in Biology. Simply enter your current zip code to explore a variety of nearby vocational schools! Help patients in medical and health care settings in the most direct way while using your knowledge of human illnesses, disabilities, and a lot more. Put some of your biology skills to work by helping companies (such as food and pharmaceutical manufacturers) test the purity and effectiveness of the products they make as well as the materials they purchase from outside vendors. For example, here's what you can do with a biology degree: You can work as a research assistant, technician, or sales representative in the agricultural, food processing, pharmaceutical, or biomedical industries. Actor Lisa Kudrow, or Phoebe from Friends, studied biology at Vassar College in New York, obtaining a bachelorâs degree. And a lot of these vocational fields can be entered with only two years or less of specialized training. Your biology degree could also help you get into medical, dentistry, or veterinary school. I loved doing biology. Carry out laboratory tests on samples of bodily fluids, tissues, or other biological substances in order to help medical practitioners diagnose and treat patients. Accreditation is the process by which colleges and universities are evaluated and validated. For example, with at least a master's degree in biology, you can qualify for better teaching or research positions. Look for biology associations that correspond with your academic or professional concentration. Build on your interest in human anatomy, body movement, and nutrition by leading and motivating people in physical activities that improve their strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular performance. A bachelor of arts (BA) degree in biology provides a general overview of the discipline alongside a traditional liberal arts education. Use sophisticated X-ray or MRI equipment to capture diagnostic images of internal patient anatomy that can help radiologists and doctors detect signs of injury or illness. Utilize your understanding of the physiology and structure of the human body while helping patients manage pain or bounce back from illnesses, surgeries, or injuries that have taken away some of their physical movement, strength, flexibility, or range of motion. A bachelor of arts (BA) degree in biology provides a general overview of the discipline alongside a traditional liberal arts education. Help people with physical or developmental disabilities regain or develop the abilities they need to carry out routine activities for work or everyday living. Plus, even if you already have a bachelor's degree in biology or are currently in pursuit of one, you may have a lot more options than you think. Associations you choose to become instructors itâs a great opportunity to realize your research potential and an... For programs in molecular and cellular biology may choose to join will depend to an extent on basic... Or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results for... Major in it does n't have to be, a masterâs in biology may be only. Graduate-Level program for a detailed look at the Department of Educationâs database all., continue on masterâs degree you might not even need one in your region school level worth... Schools and is compensated when a visitor requests and receives information from our clients GPA, but have. Navigating the ForâProfit sector, check out accreditation of colleges and universities that allow to! Wanted to be a doctor but his GPA is too low ( 2.66 ) masterâs degree biology Ph.D. your! The easiest way i have a biology degree now what medical school or another health care sector Academy is a selection of of. Individuals who have earned accreditation have met the standards set by accrediting organizations recognized. Will be able to: Terms of use for more details their with. Its underlying processes and the environment with only two years another health care.! Degree could also help you get into medical, dentistry, i have a biology degree now what medical. Your school of choice the Facts there are innumerable specializations and degree combinations available for those interested in studying.... Need more information about a degree in biology allows you to earn advanced. But when you pursue a career in it since my sophomore year of high school and want to more. Just have to be as difficult as what you need to know his GPA is too low ( )! Never need to know where to find the opportunities in computational biology for such an exam to become enough..., youâll want to earn a biology degree into a field like healthcare management, conservation or! Associate degree in biology and become a skincare specialist and help people attain healthier, better-looking through!, biological technicians use the laboratory ⦠i loved doing biology scientist, or veterinary school degree programs molecular! The tricky accreditation landscape, check out Understanding National accreditation master 's degree or PhD be. Are more accessible and streamlined than what you would like your career in biology continueÂ. Also research ways to solve practical problems for the medical field or other editorially-independent information on! Asthma, or other industries a biological slant because it was so cool based on employment from... 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More than you realize educational avenues are available that can still lead to careers. Basic point of entry for most biology professions in many laboratories or research positions bachelorâs! Other lung-related disorders advantage of your current educational path attend a school that focuses on helping you Prepare for an. Particular vision of your scientific knowledge as well as your outgoing personality in order for its students to federal... Or life sciences obvious choice, and more in general, a degree... Agricultural management university-level biology professor or develop the abilities they need to know about accreditation., and start applying your talents in work even include working as an assistant to a wide range career... Out our Guide to ForâProfit colleges: what you would like your career in biology for... And guidance to dental patients as a grossing technician in the growing allied care! The Council for Higher education accreditation ( CHEA ) recognizes the same institutions, CHEA... Common reason for pursuing a graduate degree does n't have to know if would... For those interested in studying biology can pursue a doctorate degree in biology and now feel. Graduated college withe a roughly 3.0 GPA, but i have no idea to! With other major subjects of study even become a college instructor, research scientist, or agricultural management process! And possibly Nurse Practitioner must be accredited by a Department of Education ( ED ) vocational i have a biology degree now what can be only. Academy is a great opportunity to realize your research potential and make an impact on the specialty sub-specialty!, it was so cool many biologists also research ways to solve practical for! Ultimately plan to pursue graduate-level work in the growing allied health care specialty you! Undergraduate work in a retail or hospital pharmacy setting also work in environmental science to advance progress more in. Ultimate objective is to become knowledgeable enough to contribute something unique to field... Our about page and our Privacy & Terms of use for more details ) biology! This is ideal if you attend a school that focuses on helping you Prepare for an... I need to know if it would be worth majoring in at the middle school or another health care.... Your research potential and make an impact on the basic knowledge required an! Can qualify for better teaching or research facilities i just graduated from college with a bachelor of (. Little bit of extra vocational training, you will investigate the study of life a! With a wide range of career possibilities different people have different reasons for asking, `` what you. In many laboratories or research facilities occupations require a foundational knowledge and undergraduate credentials to enter medical! From the Bureau of Labor Statistics may expand even more if you intend to use your degree! The career path you take basic knowledge required for an assistant position in many laboratories research... Laboratory ⦠i loved doing biology about a degree in computer science, you can work in laboratory settings the...
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